Member Spotlight: Ross Cook

Who are you and what is your role?

I am Executive Director for Place at Telford and Wrekin Council. 

What attracted you to work in local government?

After I left college, I was offered a choice of Youth Training Scheme (now an apprenticeship) placements.  One in retail working for Debenhams, the other working for the local council where I had grown up.  From that moment, I felt proud to be working within my local community.  39 years later, and having worked for a number of different Councils, that feeling hasn’t changed.

What challenges do you face in local government?

We are currently seeing service reform across every sector, LGR will bring new challenges and opportunities, and Devolution will bring new freedoms and funding.  All of this sits alongside the fantastic things our staff and teams continue to deliver every day.  So there are many challenges, but at the same time, we continue to show the importance local councils play and the positive impact we can have on people who live, work, study or visit our boroughs and districts.

What do you value most about APSE membership?

For me it’s the networking opportunities and a safe place to ask a question or for advice.  The Network Queries are a great way of reaching out to a wide range of experienced colleagues who will understand the issue you are facing and are always happy to share their advice.  The APSE regions then provide a great way of meeting colleagues, more often in person, and to hear about some of the amazing things being delivered, and to develop a network of people you know you can reach out to for advice or support.

Share something most interesting about living/working in your local council area?

We are really proud that Ironbridge Gorge, the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, is located within Telford and Wrekin, and earlier this year the National Trust took over stewardship of the various museums and visitor attractions.  Having an internationally recognised name operating in the Borough has showcased what we have to offer to a much wider audience.  I was proud of the work a wide range of council teams did, in a short timescale, to ensure the transfer was completed in time for the official opening.  We are already seeing an increase in visitor numbers, new training and employment opportunities, more volunteers, and wide range of community events and engagement activities.  All things that go back to my reason for joining local government – to be proud of the things we can deliver for the local community.